Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Novel Anticipation - More April 2012 Releases

Last week I spotlighted several debut authors releasing their first novel (see Debut Novel Anticipation). Now this week I'm excited to bring you new titles from four of my favorite authors. It's an eclectic group of books, so there should be something for all tastes.

Are there any other April releases you're looking forward to reading?

THE RIDE OF HER LIFE
Lake Manawa Series #3
by Lorna Seilstad

Revell, 384 pages

The Ride of Her Life is the 3rd and final novel in the whimsical Lake Manawa series written by my good friend Lorna Seilstad. As Lorna's critique partner, I've had the privilege of reading this fun book in its early stages and can't wait to read it in its polished form.
Description: The only man pragmatic Lilly Hart needs in her life is a six year old. Widowed two years ago, Lilly leaves the shelter of her intrusive in-laws' home to stand on her own and provide for her young son by working for the summer as a cook at Lake Manawa.
However, her in-laws find that life utterly unsuitable for their grandson, and when a row ensues, a handsome stranger--who designs roller coasters, of all things--intercedes on her behalf. Still, Lilly is not about to get involved with any man, especially this cocky (though charismatic) gentleman. Little does she know she is about to begin the ride of her life.

TRAVELER'S REST
by Ann Tatlock

Bethany House, 368 pages

Ann Tatlock is one of the most gifted wordsmiths around. Reading her novels is akin to listening to a symphony, and her character development is always unique multi-faceted. If you enjoy literary authors, you'll love Ann Tatlock.
Description: Jane Morrow has a dilemma. She's engaged to Seth Ballantine, a member of the National Guard's 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, and he's returned from Iraq severely wounded. Jane hasn't seen him for nearly a year, and with trepidation, she heads to the VA hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, where he is being treated.
Seth isn't happy to see her. He'd asked her not to come. He wants to end the relationship. But Jane loves him, and despite his injury, she's determined to convince him that they can have a life together. Her faith has never been strong, yet she hopes God will answer her prayers and tell her what to do. Beautifully written, Travelers Rest takes readers on a journey through pain and tragedy to a place of hope and redemption.

LEGACY ROAD
by Graham Garrison

Kregel Publications, 256 pages

Legacy Road is Graham Garrison's sophomore effort and a sequel to Hero's Tribute, one of my favorite novels from 2009 (and I'll likely reread it before diving into Legacy Road). I've been looking forward to reading this book for a long time.
Description: Wes Watkins's journalism career took off when he was asked to eulogize Michael Gavin, a stranger to Wes but a hometown hero to the humble folks of Talking Creek, Georgia.
While researching Gavin's life, Wes was confronted with an estranged relationship of his own that he wasn't prepared to address, having ignored for years the occasional letters from his imprisoned father. Wes has chosen to focus instead on his growing career and his budding relationship with Emmy.
His life is looking up . . . until his marriage proposal to Emmy goes south. Left to wonder if he can reconcile with Emmy before she is deployed to Afghanistan, Wes can no longer avoid the other reconciliation that troubles him. But when Wes uncovers a painful truth about his parents' past, patching things up with his father may prove impossible. Wes's life is close to spiraling out of control. Will Wes learn to forgive? Or will the best year of his life turn into the worst?


BECKON
by Tom Pawlik

Tyndale House, 384 pages

Tom Pawlik has quickly proven himself a master in the Christian *horror* genre. After reading his books, you might want to sleep with one eye open.
Description: Some things weren’t meant to be discovered. Three people are each drawn to the small town of Beckon, Wyoming. A young anthropologist researches a Native American legend and makes a terrifying discovery. An ex-cop investigating her cousin’s disappearance finds herself in grave peril. And an aging businessman is lured by the promise of a miracle.
One by one they discover the town’s ghastly secret. The only question is . . . will any of them make it out alive?

6 comments:

  1. Great list, Bren. I think I've got Ann Tatlock's novel coming up for the CFBA Tour in May. It'll be my first of hers. Thanks for these.

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    1. I look forward to your review of Ann's book. I've always loved her works!

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  2. Thanks for the shout out and extra thanks for all your help and work on The Ride of Her Life. I couldn't do it without you!

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    1. You're very welcome, Lorna. :) I can't wait to hold the actual book in my hands!

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  3. Brenda, SO excited for Lorna - but all of these books look good. I get so many good ideas from you when you post these, some I would have missed being stuck in my historical genre. Time to wake up and smell the coffee, I guess!! Bless you so much.

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    1. Hi Laura! I'm thrilled for Lorna too. I'm eagerly awaiting the arrival of Ride of Her Life.

      So glad I can introduce you to new authors. Christian fiction has so much to offer--I love trying all the genres and its a bonus when I discover new authors I love like you. :) (I can't wait to read and plug Love's Reckoning.)

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